OSHA investigating deaths of Amazon workers in New Jersey

Amazon’s facilities in New Jersey reported deaths of three workers at the jobs over the span of last few weeks. Hence, The Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced to investigate these deaths. Moreover, OSHA will not announce the results of the investigation till its completion which may take up to six months.

First Death reported in July

Federal officials have turned their focus on Amazon’s workplace safety hazards. Previously, three Amazon workers passed away while being at job at three different Amazon’s warehouses in New Jersey. The first incident was reported on July 13 when a 42-year-old Rafael Reynaldo Mota Frias collapsed at the EWR9 warehouse in Carteret. The medical services transported the worker to the hospital but he did not survive. However, the cause of his death is still unknown. “We’re deeply saddened by the passing of one of our colleagues and offer our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.” Amazon spokesperson Sam Stephenson wrote in response to inquiries.

Investigation in on going and may take 6 months

Furthermore, other workers claimed that he had a very demanding job which included pushing carts loaded down with goods. In addition, his duty was on the upper floor of the facility which is notorious for its high temperature. Similarly, on July 24 another worker succumbed to fatal injuries during a workplace accident. Lastly, a worker at the company’s DEY6 delivery station facility in Monroe Township passed away on the job. However, the further details regarding cause of death and other information has been withheld. OSHA has claimed the ongoing investigations prevent it from releasing more information.

Probing allegation at several other Amazon’s facilities

The death at Amazon facilities led to a public outcry. Therefore, federal officials have now launched a formal investigation. Investigators from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are now probing the causes of deaths of deceased workers. On the other hand, OSHA remained significantly understaffed and underfunded. Hence, they have done little to restrain the criminality of the ruling class in its relentless drive for profits. Furthermore, A Department of Labor spokesperson confirmed OSHA has also opened investigations at Amazon warehouses in Colorado, Idaho and New York. He further stated that OSHA is probing allegations of safety and health violations at several Amazon facilities.

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